By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A MALE-LED family violence prevention campaign helping tackle the growing issue of domestic abuse is under threat as the state government fails to commit to vital future funding.
The Challenge Family Violence Prevention Project, which trains male leaders who educate other men about domestic violence in Cardinia Shire, the City of Casey and the Greater City of Dandenong will run out of funds in November this year.
Evidence suggests men engaging with other men is an effective tool to break the cycle of abuse.
The decision comes as family violence reports in the Cardinia Shire area have more than doubled in the past five years.
The City of Casey has among the highest rates of domestic violence across the state.
State Government spokesman Kosta Pandos said future funding would be considered as part of the Royal Commission into Family Violence early next year.
“The Andrews Labor Government has embarked on Australia’s first Royal Commission into Family Violence that will determine the best ways to prevent and address this harm,” Mr Pandos said.
“Family violence is a gendered crime, and our response must tackle the negative attitudes and behaviour towards women.
“The Royal Commission into Family Violence will consider the importance of preventive responses in its recommendations that are to be delivered in February 2016.”
A mentor for the Challenge Family Violence Prevention Project said it was a shame the funds were not carried over until the end of the commission.
“It’s a shame, we may lose some momentum.”
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